How long has the tank been set up? Have you ever gotten a nitrite reading? Sounds like it's not cycled yet.

 

I haven't seen even a hint of nitrate or nitrite since setup. It's been up since November 1st.

 

OK, you're not cycled yet. Some cycles can be stubbornly slow, but your ammonia reading means you are on your way. I wouldn't pull back on food. Feed the right amount. The food actually helps the cycle along.

 

Okay, I'm glad to know that it's not awfully abnormal. I'll return to the normal feeding.

 

I think your over thinking it. Is there only 1 betta in the tank? how big is the tank?

 

There is one betta. It's 5.5 gallons. Last night the tank was at 2 ppm after a water change the night prior. I'm at a loss. I don't smell anything and Mei seems happy and energetic.

 

what are you using to test for ammonia?

 

i use the API test kit. 8 drops testing liquid #1, 8 drops testing liquid #2, 5 mL of tank water, shake for 5 seconds.

 

Something has to be wrong with the tests. I refuse to believe it is at 4 ppm.

 

Try testing half distilled and half tank water, and if you get an ammonia reading try testing just the distilled water. If there's still ammonia detected, it's likely a kit error

 

Test your tap water straight out of the faucet for a comparison,

 

Every time I test the ammonia it is ALWAYS at 1 ppm. I've tried everything. Water changes of 25-50% very very often, less food, vacuuming substrate...What is wrong???

Speed Test​

Have you ever gotten a nitrite reading? Sounds like it's not cycled yet.